Lahore installs panic buttons in public transport, rickshaws, cabs

The installation is being carried out on the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Traffic teams are actively installing QR-enabled panic buttons on vehicles across different parts of the city. The initiative aims to improve passenger safety and ensure a quicker response during emergencies.

Installation underway at 45 locations

According to the Lahore Chief Traffic Officer, traffic teams are carrying out the installation process at 45 locations across the city. Dedicated teams have been assigned to speed up the work and ensure that more public transport vehicles are covered under the system.

Officials said 12 teams had been specifically assigned to install panic buttons in rickshaws. The QR panic button has been made mandatory for public transport vehicles and rickshaws as part of efforts to strengthen passenger safety.

How the QR panic button system works

The panic button is designed to help passengers seek assistance during an emergency. Once activated, the system can alert the relevant authorities, allowing them to respond quickly to the situation.

The initiative is part of broader efforts to introduce modern technology and smart safety features into Lahore’s transport system. Officials hope the system will provide passengers with an additional layer of security while travelling across the city.

New licensing centres established for rickshaw drivers

The Lahore Traffic Police have also established four new licensing centres following requests from rickshaw unions. The new centres are aimed at facilitating rickshaw drivers and streamlining the licensing process.

The move is expected to reduce pressure on existing licensing facilities and provide drivers with greater access to official services. Officials said the initiative is part of wider efforts to improve traffic services and strengthen the regulation of public transport in Lahore.

Smart traffic and security systems also being promoted

The Lahore Traffic Police are also working to promote smart traffic management and modern security features across the city. Authorities believe that the use of technology can help improve public safety and make emergency response systems more effective.

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The installation of QR panic buttons is one step towards introducing technology-based solutions in Lahore’s transport network. Officials are continuing efforts to expand modern traffic and security services across the city.

Panic button system also introduced in educational institutions

The broader panic button initiative has also been introduced in educational institutions to improve safety and emergency response. In the first phase, 39 institutions were equipped with the system.

According to a Punjab Safe Cities Authority spokesperson, the project will later be expanded to more than 450 women’s colleges across Punjab. The expansion aims to provide students with a quick and reliable way to seek help during emergencies.

Alerts linked to PSCA control room

The panic buttons are linked to the Punjab Safe Cities Authority’s central control room. When a button is pressed, an alert is sent to the Virtual Women Police Station, prompting a rapid police response.

The system is particularly designed to help students seek assistance when they do not have immediate access to their mobile phones. Officials said the technology could help strengthen emergency response and provide quicker access to law enforcement when needed.

What the new safety system means for Lahore

The installation of more than 40,000 QR panic buttons marks a major step towards improving safety in Lahore’s public transport system. The initiative could provide passengers, particularly women and other vulnerable travellers, with an additional way to seek help during an emergency.

Its effectiveness, however, will depend on proper installation, public awareness, and a quick response from the relevant authorities. As the system expands, it could become an important part of Lahore’s wider smart traffic and public safety network.